Introduction
“Believe,” a stirring country–gospel ballad by Brooks & Dunn, stands as one of the duo’s most poignant storytelling songs. Written by Ronnie Dunn and renowned songwriter Craig Wiseman, it was released in October 2005 as the second single from their Platinum-certified album Hillbilly Deluxe.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young boy recalling his summers spent with “Old Man Wrigley,” a quiet neighbor who lost his wife and child. Through heartfelt conversation, the old man confesses that his faith sustains him—he believes he will see his family again in heaven. Years later, the boy learns Wrigley has passed away, but the wisdom imparted on that porch swing remains, touching the boy’s life and rekindling his own spiritual reflection .
Musically, “Believe” is almost entirely acoustic, showcasing Brooks & Dunn’s raw emotion and minimizing production to emphasize the poignant lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement allows listeners to connect directly with the heartfelt story.
Respected by critics and fans alike, the song captured three major honors at the 2006 CMA Awards—Single of the Year, Song of the Year, and Music Video of the Year . It also earned the ACM’s Single and Song of the Year awards . In 2019, Rolling Stone even hailed it as one of the “40 Saddest Country Songs of All Time” .
Over time, “Believe” has continued to resonate beyond the country genre. The emotional depth of its message led artists like Jennifer Hudson to perform notable covers, further extending its impact. Its legacy saw new life in Reboot II (2024), a project where Brooks & Dunn revisited “Believe” alongside artist Jelly Roll, incorporating sweeping orchestral and choral elements to deepen its spiritual resonance.
In essence, “Believe” transcends simple storytelling. It powerfully explores loss, faith, and hope—asking listeners to reflect on what sustains them through hardship. Its emotional honesty and universal message ensure the song remains deeply affecting, long after the final chord fades.